Film/Video Department Chairperson (71100)

Pratt Institute•Ny, NY

About The Position

Pratt Institute’s School of Art seeks an accomplished artist/filmmaker and empathetic leader to serve as Chairperson of the Film/Video Department, with a desired start date of July 1, 2027. The Chair will provide academic and administrative leadership to a student-centered department of approximately 215 students, guiding its future while honoring its culture, strengths, and history. The role calls for a compelling vision for film and media education, significant expertise in higher education and filmmaking, a strong creative-practice record, and engagement with the evolving field. The Chair is expected to lead collaboratively and transparently, with a commitment to mentorship, inclusion, and student success. The department offers a BFA in Film and supports learning across nonfiction, fiction, experimental, and other time-based media practices. Its curriculum emphasizes conceptual, technical, and professional development; collaborative learning; imaginative thinking; visual literacy; personal voice; and bold artistic vision. The department has 5 full-time faculty, 30 part-time faculty, and 8 staff members. Its 15,000-square-foot facilities include a 96-seat screening room, equipment cage, sound stages, sound studio, and post-production suites. This is a twelve-month-per-year administrative appointment with a three-year contract that may be renewed. Salary is commensurate with experience and qualifications. Application review begins January 22, 2027 and continues until the position is filled. Applicants are asked to submit a letter of intent, curriculum vitae including courses taught, a portfolio of 4–10 recent creative or professional works with relevant links, an administrative philosophy statement, a statement connecting their research and scholarship to Pratt’s values, and contact information for five professional references.

Requirements

MFA, terminal degree, or equivalent in Film/Video or a related field.
At least five years of administrative management experience in higher education.
At least five years of college-level teaching.
Strong academic background and ability to lead curriculum development and assessment.
Demonstrated engagement with technological advancements in the field.
Proven achievement in art, filmmaking, film/video screenings, exhibitions, publications, broadcasts, producing, production, curatorial work, and/or scholarship.
Strong administrative skills.
Excellent organizational and interpersonal skills.
Ability to communicate effectively with diverse populations.

Responsibilities

Oversee all aspects of departmental activities, including curricula and educational programs.
Manage the departmental budget.
Recruit, hire, supervise, and mentor faculty and staff.
Manage recruitment and retention efforts to ensure healthy student cohorts.
Facilitate program learning-outcome assessment and periodic comprehensive program review.
Anticipate and respond to changes in the field as both an operational leader and thought leader.
Work with staff and faculty to keep equipment, technology, and facilities current.
Create a welcoming departmental environment; manage conflict, advise students, and address student concerns in accordance with Institute policies and procedures.
Coordinate with other campus departments to share resources.
Lead and promote research, grant writing, and fundraising.
Develop initiatives with alumni, industry, and the broader community.
Steer high-profile events and activities, including workshops, screenings, and interdisciplinary collaborations.